That's an excellent question about urban infrastructure durability! Modern public trash cans are specifically engineered to handle constant sun exposure. Most quality models use UV-stabilized materials like HDPE plastic, powder-coated steel, or composite materials containing protective additives. These components create a molecular barrier that absorbs and disperses UV radiation before it can break down the material's structure.
Regarding color fading - while some gradual change is natural over many years, manufacturers employ several techniques to minimize this. Pigments are embedded deep within the material rather than just surface-coated, and many bins feature fade-resistant colors like dark greens, grays, and browns that show weathering less noticeably. The most durable options often have textured finishes that help disguise any minor fading that does occur.
Maintenance plays a role too. Regular cleaning removes contaminants that can accelerate UV damage. In my experience observing municipal installations, well-made bins in moderate climates maintain their appearance for 5-8 years before showing significant fading, while cheaper models might deteriorate in just 2-3 years. The investment in UV-protected units ultimately saves cities money through longer replacement cycles.
So while no outdoor material is completely immune to sunlight, today's urban trash cans are far more resilient than their predecessors thanks to advanced material science and protective technologies.